The UAE is solidifying its status as a global frontrunner in Artificial Intelligence (AI) by deploying extensive strategies that encourage innovation, investment, and favorable legislation. With its sophisticated infrastructure, flexible regulatory frameworks, and policies that advocate for technological progress, the nation continues to draw in premier AI talent and budding startups, WAM reported.
Vision for AI extends beyond economic gains
While the UAE’s objective for AI encompasses more than just economic benefits, the technology is anticipated to have a profound effect on the economy. The country is expected to secure the third position globally, following China and the U.S., in AI’s contribution to economic growth.
A report by PwC predicts that AI will account for approximately 13.6 percent of the UAE’s GDP, translating to about $100 billion by 2030. Furthermore, AI’s impact on regional economies is projected to rise between 20 percent and 34 percent, with the UAE at the forefront due to its strong dedication to AI development and implementation.
Regulatory framework drives financial innovation
According to KPMG International, the UAE’s regulatory framework lays the groundwork for innovations in financial technology and digital payments. Cybersecurity has become a pivotal factor in driving digital transformation, with the UAE introducing several data privacy laws aimed at protecting personal and organizational information.
Abu Dhabi’s ambition for AI-powered governance
At the governmental level, Abu Dhabi aspires to become the first AI-powered government. Its newly launched strategy is centered on creating a robust digital infrastructure, achieving 100 percent capacity in sovereign cloud computing, and fully automating and digitizing government operations.
Nick Redshaw, Oracle’s senior VP of Technology Cloud in MEA and UAE country leader, commended the UAE’s leadership for crafting an inspiring vision in the AI era.
Transformative progress in AI and technology
Ahmed Gamal, business development manager for Nvidia AI Solutions at Advanced Integration, a strategic partner of NVIDIA, emphasized the UAE’s transformative advancements in AI and technology, establishing it as a benchmark for both regional and global markets. He remarked that the UAE was among the first nations to initiate a national AI strategy in 2017 (the UAE Strategy of Artificial Intelligence), with the goal of positioning itself as a global AI hub by 2031. This strategy concentrates on vital sectors such as education, healthcare, transportation, and energy.
A premier destination for advanced technology investment
The UAE has emerged as a premier destination for investment in advanced technology, attracting AI talent and startups. Through government backing and strategic collaborations with major global companies like NVIDIA and Google, the nation has secured a distinguished status among the leading AI nations worldwide.
Gamal further asserted that the UAE hosts numerous global AI projects, and its investments in AI are expected to generate significant economic advantages in the years to come.
Strategic approach combines regulation and investment
Samer Al Jayyusi, specialty AI & GenAI Regional lead for Central & Eastern Europe, Middle East, Türkiye, and Africa, emphasized the UAE’s strategic methodology, which melds flexible regulations with ambitious investments in emerging technologies. He pointed out that the UAE was one of the first countries globally to enact policies regulating AI usage while simultaneously nurturing an innovative environment.
Competitiveness in AI driven by infrastructure
Dr. Akram Awad, managing director & partner with the Boston Consulting Group, highlighted the UAE’s competitiveness in AI, attributing its success to a well-established digital infrastructure and a supportive regulatory and investment ecosystem. He also noted that the country has seen a 40 percent increase in AI professionals since 2022, reinforcing its position as a leading hub for AI talent and expertise.
